Styling Formal Living Areas with Original Artwork

It is important to refine formal living spaces in a way that feels considered, sophisticated and effortlessly chic. Original artworks do far more than simply decorate a room. They complete it with a sense of richness and luxury that cannot be achieved through soft furnishings and ornamental objects alone.

A blank wall can leave even the most beautifully furnished room feeling unfinished. While furniture and interior finishes establish the foundation of a space, it is often the artwork that introduces warmth, personality and true sophistication into the home.

I have put together my personal top five details to remember when styling formal living spaces and I hope these suggestions help you create a sophisticated and beautifully resolved result.

1. Let the artwork be the key feature of the room.

   A feature artwork will immediately draw the eye and anchor the entire room. Rather than filling the space with excessive décor and smaller decorative objects, allow one substantial artwork to become the star of your formal room. This approach creates a more refined and sophisticated aesthetic while giving the room a clear focal point and sense of balance. Your are creating a room that feels special and more formal than the rest of the home, this is where that special artwork should shine.

   

2. Select an artwork that complements and enhances the interior finishes. 

   Consider surrounding materials such as timber, marble, brass and linen when selecting artwork. Colours within the painting can enhance certain touches you have added to the room finishes. Other artwork elements such as line and texture can subtly help tie an entire room together. For example, a painting with curved and flowing lines within it can visually ease and break up a room of hard edges. Additionally, textured artworks can subtly soften a formal room with lots of polished and hard surfaces.

   

3. Consider how light will interact with the painting. 

   Lighting can affect how an artwork presents within a formal space. Gloss varnished paintings and artworks framed under glass can reflect surrounding lighting and, if not thoughtfully positioned, may detract from the overall aesthetic. Formal rooms often feature layered lighting schemes including wall sconces, warm directional lighting and statement pendants, all of which can potentially work against a feature artwork if not carefully considered.

   If selecting an artwork framed under glass, it may be worthwhile investing in non reflective museum grade glass to avoid glare and unwanted reflections. Textured artworks are often particularly successful in formal interiors because they respond beautifully to changing light throughout the day. Layered paint surfaces and raised textures create subtle shadows and highlights that introduce depth, movement and a luxurious sense of dimension into the room.

4. Don’t overlook the importance of good framing.

   The framing of a feature artwork can play a major role in the overall success of a formal interior. A thoughtfully selected frame helps complete the space and allows the artwork to feel integrated within the room rather than simply placed upon a wall. Some interiors suit a minimal contemporary trim frame, while others present an opportunity to further elevate the space with a custom framing choice designed to complement surrounding finishes and architectural details.

   

   There are many beautiful framing options available, however framing should always be considered in relation artwork and to the room itself. Currently, many artworks are being finished with standard timber trim frames without enough thought given to the overall interior trends. Small details can make a remarkable difference. A carefully selected stain, soft whitewash, natural varnish or even a deep Japanese inspired ink stain can dramatically enhance both the artwork and the sophistication of the room it inhabits. 

5. Invest in the original 

   Original artworks bring authenticity, individuality and lasting emotional value into the home. They create stylish interiors that feel timeless rather than trend driven, allowing a space to feel truly considered and complete.

   At KAB Gallery, we work with collectors seeking original Australian artworks that bring both sophistication and style into their homes. Our carefully curated collection of paintings continues to be highly sought after for interiors that need elevation because the works create visual impact while remaining elegant, timeless and beautifully liveable.

   Whether you are refining a single room or styling an entire home, selecting the right artwork can completely transform the atmosphere of a space. I invite you to visit my galleries or explore the collection online to discover original artworks that will elevate your interiors for years to come.

About the author

Kerry-Anne Blanket

Director & Curator - KAB Gallery

KAB Gallery’s Kerry-Anne Blanket holds a Bachelor of Visual Arts and two Masters degrees (Hons) from the University of Sydney. With an extensive career in art education along with the management of museums and investment art galleries, Kerry-Anne can offer premier art consulting to her clients and source specially requested works. 

She has a keen eye for detail, comprehensive art market knowledge and a love of all things beautiful. Kerry-Anne works directly with artists and collectors alike to curate interesting and eclectic exhibitions.